Wilda's Outlaw by Velda Brotherton

Author:Velda Brotherton [Brotherton, Velda]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Tags: Western, victorian, cookie429, Kat, Extratorrents
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Published: 2012-10-26T21:00:00+00:00

Chapter Twelve

Rowena’s Diary

Sunday, June 6, 1875

We have only been here at Fairhaven a few days, but when I think back on all that has occurred, it seems forever. There is still no sign of Wilda since that horrid outlaw grabbed her, nor word from any of the parties that have ridden out in search of her. We can only conclude the worst, that she has been ravaged and perhaps killed by the outlaw who rode so brazenly in under cover of darkness and took her away. Why anyone would do such a thing is beyond all our reasoning powers. I must admit that it has occurred to me that she flirted outrageously with that outlaw on the train. Perhaps he took that to mean more than it did. Or perhaps it did mean more than I might suppose. I have not mentioned that to Blair. He has enough on his mind.

He is beside himself with concern. More than once I have found him sitting alone in the dark of the library, drinking whiskey and staring out the window across the plains. He no longer allows me to come near him, as if he were afraid of us getting too close. I could comfort him in his time of sorrow, but he does not wish it. It is as if he covets her even more now that she is gone and he cannot have her.

Though Blair is an accomplished horseman, he has not ridden out with the posses or search parties. I would like to ask him why, but do not dare. I overheard him telling Marguerite, whom he seems to prefer as a confidante, that he is thinking of offering a reward for the outlaw, dead or alive, as is the custom in this savage place. He thinks perhaps he can get the soldiers at Fort Hays involved in bringing this coward to justice.

As for my cousin Tyra, I know she secretly spends many hours away from Fairhaven, and she does not seem to grieve Wilda’s loss as do the rest of us. The groom is teaching her to ride, I’ve seen them return when they think no one is about. Perhaps I should tell Blair, but this is something else he need not worry about. Besides, what does it hurt? She needs some diversion, and is hard headed enough to find some, no matter what Blair might do. I only hope she does not get herself in trouble with no one to look after her.

If Wilda were here she would see that nothing untoward happened, but I have never enjoyed the rapport with our cousin that she has. I suppose I am too old maid prudish for their ways. Both are so much like their own mothers, rebellious and daring. Reactions I have never been able to embrace. I fear the consequences too much, I suppose.

I cannot help but wonder what will happen if Wilda never returns. I would gladly take her place as Lady of Fairhaven, if Blair would permit.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.